The Ashanti Regional Command of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has embarked on an outdoor sensitisation campaign to educate commercial tricycle and motorbike riders on the dangers and legal consequences associated with transporting illicit drugs.
The exercise, held at the Kumasi Central Mosque, formed part of activities marking the 2026 World Drug Day celebration and targeted riders following concerns over the increasing abuse and trafficking of narcotic substances in the region.
Led by the Ashanti Regional Commander of NACOC, PNCO Samuel Yeboah, the team educated participants on the harmful effects of drug abuse on their health, livelihoods and businesses.
According to NACOC, intelligence gathered in the region suggests that some young people, particularly commercial riders, are increasingly becoming vulnerable to drug-related activities.
The Commission noted that some drug traffickers exploit riders by using them as unsuspecting carriers to transport narcotic substances from bus terminals and other locations to their final destinations.
More than 50 riders took part in the engagement, where they received education on how to identify suspicious packages, avoid being used by criminals, and protect themselves from legal consequences.
PNCO Samuel Yeboah explained that the outreach was necessary due to the growing concerns surrounding drug abuse and trafficking in the Ashanti Region.
He cautioned riders and the general public against accepting packages or transporting items without knowing their contents, warning that anyone found carrying narcotic substances could face serious legal consequences.
The Commission also urged commercial riders to support efforts aimed at reducing drug-related offences by reporting suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
NACOC reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying public education campaigns as part of efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking across the country.
